Civic honours were last awarded in 2002, to mark the Golden Jubilee, when Preston, Stirling, Newport, Lisburn and Newry were awarded city status, and Exeter was awarded a Lord Mayoralty. In 2012, just one award of city status and one award of Lord Mayoralty is expected to be made.

Lasting legacy

“Marking Her Majesty’s 60 years on the throne in 2012 will be a great opportunity for the nation to come together in celebration, just as it did for her Silver and Golden Jubilees,” said Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Culture. “This competition will be an important part of this and will ensure that there is a lasting legacy that will remain long after the festivities are over. I look forward to hearing who’s won.”

Local authorities should follow entry guidelines, published today, when submitting their applications. The results of the compteition will be announced in the first half of 2012.